Find acting classes in Downey, CA

Q: How much do acting classes cost?

Acting classes cost $25 to $65 per hour on average for group classes or $50 to $150+ per hour to hire a private acting coach. Prices vary depending on where you live and the instructor's experience and reputation. Acting studios that offer ongoing weekly classes typically charge $150 to $350 per month . Acting courses and workshops can cost as little as $200 to as much as $2,800+ , depending on the content, number of sessions, and the instructor's demand. Some acting workshops are short, 1- or 2-day intensive classes focusing on one aspect of the industry, while other programs last 4 to 8 weeks and cover several topics, methods, and techniques. Most studios offer a free trial class so you can get a feel for the teaching style and decide if it's right for you.

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Find acting classes in Downey, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best acting classes in your area.

Zip code

Top 10 acting classes in Downey, CA

Students agree: these Downey acting classes are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.

Your Acting Classes questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.

How much do acting classes cost?

Acting classes cost $25 to $65 per hour on average for group classes or $50 to $150+ per hour to hire a private acting coach. Prices vary depending on where you live and the instructor's experience and reputation. Acting studios that offer ongoing weekly classes typically charge $150 to $350 per month.

Acting courses and workshops can cost as little as $200 to as much as $2,800+, depending on the content, number of sessions, and the instructor's demand. Some acting workshops are short, 1- or 2-day intensive classes focusing on one aspect of the industry, while other programs last 4 to 8 weeks and cover several topics, methods, and techniques.

Most studios offer a free trial class so you can get a feel for the teaching style and decide if it's right for you.

Are online acting classes worth it?

Online acting classes are worth it if you want to pursue acting and are unable to attend acting classes in person. With online video calling platforms like Zoom and Skype, you can now study acting with the best in the industry from the comfort of your own home! Many reputable acting coaches—including those right here on Lessons—now offer online acting classes and teach the same methods and techniques that they teach in the studio.

Do you need acting classes to become an actor?

You technically don't need acting classes to become an actor. However, acting classes can help you gain confidence, learn new methods and techniques, analyze scenes and scripts, and build new industry connections and relationships. Acting classes can also teach you about the business side of acting, which is as important as acting itself.

How long do acting classes take?

Acting class length varies depending on the studio and the type of class. Some studios have 2-hour classes, while others have classes lasting 3 to 5 hours. Depending on the location, acting classes may be offered in several formats, such as ongoing weekly classes, weekend intensive workshops, and training programs that can run anywhere from 2 to 8+ weeks.

What skills do you need to be an actor?

While the necessary skillset varies depending on the type of acting you pursue (think Broadway theater vs. TV commercials vs. film), all actors need a broad range of skills to portray the expressions and emotions of a character so effectively that they temporarily transport the audience to a world where the actor is indeed that character. This often involves:

Memorizing lines and stage cues
Analyzing scripts and scenes
Developing a character's emotions and physical expressions
Working with other actors, directors, and production crews
Adapting to unexpected changes and situations
Speaking clearly and adjusting one's voice to align with the character
Learning and developing different acting methods and techniques
Being comfortable in front of an audience or camera

Reviews for Downey acting classes

Recent success stories from people in the Downey area.

Charles C.

I'm a 74 year old retired man. I have always loved acting but have had some minor challenges due to bad eye sight and I'm not that computer savvy. Jim helped me learn how to use an I-pad my grand daughter gave me to help me expand fonts to read scripts. Though I'm only doing this so far for a hobby, I can see huge improvement in my ability to memorize scripts and act convincingly. Jim encouraged me to audition for the community senior center's drama club. I couldn't believe it I got right in and enjoying meeting new people (I'm widowed). Jim has been a Godsend. I'm finding new joy and I'm enjoying seeing local theatre productions. I appreciate his kind, patient, and professional matter. Acting lessons with Jim is what got me through the horrible isolation during Covid quarantine. He is also incredibly knowledgable on health such as veganism, breathing/meditation and is encouraging me to get into a healthier lifestyle. My voice/sinuses improved after giving up dairy. I used to get chronic sinusitis. So I feel acting has been beneficial to my overall health. Though Jim is pricier than other teachers in the area... I believe you pay for what you get. The extra money I pay is well worth it. The two other acting coaches I used before Jim...were mediocre and treated me like an invalid. Jim continues to inspire me to be the best I can be in all areas of my life. I consider him a good friend and he is one of the best educators out there.

Spencer Artist Development

Gabby R.

Training with David Tom has been a bright light keeping me going during the times I felt like I should quit. Definitely some of the best coaching I have ever experienced. These classes are what every beginning or advanced actor needs: a safe and fun space to try, fail, learn, and experiment! David has given me extra confidence not only in my pursuit of acting but in my daily life too! Some of the advantages of the online format include flexible scheduling (several class times to choose from each week), taking class from any quiet space with a wifi connection, and getting to act and connect with people from all around the world. David is a compassionate and talented acting coach and has always keep in mind was is best for me as his student. He always challenges me to reach out of my comfort zone but to also be safe and to never take any roles that would be against my ethical standings. I would recommend that anyone looking for a legitimate, professional, kind, and a very experienced acting coach should definitely take his classes. He has taught me so much and I am forever grateful. Thank you David for everything!

Acting with Emmy Award Winner David Tom

Berthia

I have found a great group of people to learn and grow with here. Steve Lowe is very knowledgeable and keeps up with the most current industry standards. This keeps his actors ahead of the curve. Highly recommend!

The Actors Room

Anne B.

Melissa is a phenomenal acting coach! My ten-year old daughter has grown and learned so much through Melissa’s performing arts workshop. Melissa is extremely experienced and knowledgeable in acting techniques and the acting industry. Melissa is positive, energetic, fun and caring. She makes the classes fun for kids while simultaneously teaching. Highly recommend this workshop!

Melissa K’s Performing Arts Workshop

Samantha W.

Caleb Stewart’s teaching methods are both innovative and inspiring. He doesn’t just teach you how to act; he teaches you how to shine on stage and screen. Thanks to Caleb, I’ve landed roles I once thought were out of my reach!

Get Booked Acting Studio

Antonio G.

Ms. Sousa is really nice. The first time we met was in my class LA AllStars program. She made me feel very comfortable even though I was camera shy. She was organized and had a plan for each class lesson and I learned alot. After I graduated I am now studying film studies at Santa Monica College and will transfer to USC -- i hope. :)

Sousa Acting Core Lessons

Taylor A.

I had the pleasure of working with Matt on several occasions and not only possess patience and assurance, he was extremely knowledgeable of the art of acting. One exercise that stood out to me was the body awareness exercise. I learned that acting really is all about creating a moment and being aware of what your body is telling you. In addition, I really enjoyed the advanced scene study halls as well. I remember I had a very important audition and I learned so much about listening and learning the other person’s lines and their intents. All in all, great teacher, great actor, and HILARIOUS guy. Have you seen him on Snapchat?

REM Vision

Carlos M.

Jorge Celaya es un artista y actor talentoso y como maestro es muy profesional. Llevé 2 clases con él durante un año y asistí a dos de sus obras de teatro que escribió como dramaturgo, además de tener la ocasión de presenciar dos de sus cortometrajes.